Title: Research Natural Resource Technicians
PART TIME/SEASONAL/ON CALL
3-6 months with possibility of extension
Reporting Authority: Biologist or Research Scientist
Job Description: Support a variety of SRSC projects in the collection and compilation of samples and/or data for salmon related research.
ABOUT SRSC
Skagit River System Cooperative (SRSC) is currently recruiting Research Natural Resource Technicians for the 2024 field season. SRSC provides natural resource management services for the Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe and the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community. On behalf of these two sovereign nations, SRSC works to actively improve fisheries management within their usual and accustomed fishing areas. Fisheries management carried out by SRSC includes harvest and hatchery management, research, environmental review, habitat restoration, and a range of other activities. Find out more about us and the important work we are a part of at: www.skagitcoop.org.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITES:
In this position you will support SRSC’s mission of salmon recovery in the Skagit River watershed through a variety of fisheries research field data collection activities. A typical day is 8-10 hours and might begin at 4 am for tidally dependent beach seine sampling or 8 am for upper basin stream sampling. We collect data on juvenile fish in habitats throughout the watershed, from river floodplains and mainstem sites to riverine tidal distributaries and estuarine tidal blind channels or bayfront beach sites. We observe, collect, identify, measure, and release juvenile salmon and non-salmon species, as well as collect physical habitat data and water quality. These data are typically used in project-specific effectiveness monitoring or as reference data for larger spatial status and trend questions. In general, we investigate whether habitat restoration actions increase salmon use of estuary or floodplain sites and ultimately increase salmon populations.
To be successful in this job, you’ll need to be comfortable doing physical work, outside, in remote locations without cell service, in both pleasant and inclement conditions. You will conduct fisheries field techniques that can include beach seining, fyke trapping, smolt trapping, snorkel surveys, boat and backpack electrofishing, spawn ground surveys, habitat assessment, and water quality monitoring. You’ll need to do physical tasks that might include hauling, lifting, post pounding, field construction, boat operation, hiking in remote backcountry situations, wading in estuaries and swift flowing streams, site clearance, preparation, carpentry, etc. You must learn to identify common fishes found in the Skagit River and the Skagit Estuary. It is helpful but not necessary to have experience in operation and maintenance of nets, boats, trailers, vehicles and other field equipment. As a part of this job you will record, compile and maintain field records and notes including logbooks, data sheets and electronic data collection equipment. You may be asked to assist in the preparation of reports or perform other duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by a Field Biologist, Biologist, Research Scientist, Program Directors and/or the SRSC Board.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education: High School Diploma or GED; 2-year degree or bachelor’s degree preferred
Experience: Experience with accurate data taking, listed field sampling techniques, boat handling, and/or operation and use of field equipment is preferred.
Skills and Abilities:
Ability to carry at least 50 lbs. of awkward equipment over uneven terrain for up to 7 miles in a day on a daily basis
Willingness to work early morning, daytime, evening, or night shifts as river flows, tides, and seasonal fish behavior require
Ability to wade in swift water conditions and intertidal areas including deltas, beaches and mudflats
Willingness to work in harsh environments under various weather conditions
Willingness to work from watercraft on the river (whitewater class 2 for jet boat and class 3 for cataraft), Skagit Estuary, and Skagit Bay
Willingness to work in remote wilderness settings without cell coverage
Ability to operate sharp tools and power equipment safely
Good oral and written communication skills in person and by phone and text
Accurate record keeping ability
Proficiency in the use of computers is desirable
Sensitivity to Native American culture, customs, and traditions
Ability to comply with the Drug Free Workplace Act
Must have a valid Washington State Driver’s License and must be insurable
Salary: $20.03/hour
APPLYING:
To obtain an application: Visit the website www.skagitcoop.org
Send a letter of interest AND a resume by email in response to this posting.
Application Deadline: Rolling application review upon receipt; final deadline May 16, 2024, 5:00 PM
INDIAN PREFERENCE APPLIES TO THIS RECRUITMENT
